Fate of transgenic soybean DNA and immune response of broilers fed genetically modified DP-3Ø5423-1 soybean.

Increased use of genetically modified (GM) plants in the food and feed industry has raised several concerns about the presence of unwanted genes in the food chain and potential associated health risks. In recent years, several studies have compared the nutrient contents of GM crops to conventional counterparts, and some have also tracked the fate of novel DNA fragments and proteins in the gastrointestinal (GIT) and their presence in several tissues. This study was conducted to investigate the fate of transgenic PHP19340A DNA fragment containing gm-fad2-1 (Soybean Event DP-3Ø5423-1) gene in digestive tract contents, blood, internal organs, and muscle tissues. The effects of feeding DP-3Ø5423-1 full-fat soybean meal (FFSBM) to broiler chickens on immune response and blood profiles were also evaluated on d 35. Day-old Ross 308 birds (n = 480) were randomly allocated to 24 floor pens in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement with diet and gender as main factors. Birds were fed diets containing 20% of either DP-3Ø5423-1 or non-GM FFSBM for 35 d. Data were subjected to a 2-way ANOVA using the GLM procedure of JMP (Pro13). Based on PCR analysis, transgenic PHP19340A DNA fragment containing gm-fad2-1 gene was degraded throughout the digestive system to reach undetectable level in the cecal digesta. Moreover, there was no transgenic gene translocation to blood, organs, or muscle tissue. Feeding DP-3Ø5423-1 FFSBM to broilers had no effect on mRNA abundance of IL-1ß, IL-2, IL-6, IL-12B, IL-17A, IFNγ, TNFα, and NF-κB in the spleen or on blood profile. In conclusion, these findings indicate that the examined transgenic fragment in DP-3Ø5423-1 FFSBM progressively degraded in the GIT and did not translocate into blood or tissues. Along with the immune response and blood profile findings, it can be assumed that DP-3Ø5423-1 soybean is safe and unlikely to pose any health risks to broilers or consumers.

Influence of Dietary Addition of Mineral Shungite and Fucus vesiculosus on Production Performance, Egg Quality, Nutrients Digestibility, and Immunity Status of Laying Hens.

The main purpose of this study was to assess the impact of using the thermally modified mineral adsorbent shungite (MAS) and the dried seaweed meal Fucus vesiculosus (DSM) with different doses in Brown Nick cross laying hens' diet on their productivity, nutrient digestibility, morphological and blood profile, immunity status, and egg quality. A total of 261,720 hens were used in this experiment at the age of 63 weeks, and they were randomly divided into 5 groups (feeding program) with six repetitions of 8724 chickens in each. The first served (control) as a control group where laying hens were fed the basal diet that was used on the farm only; the second and the third groups represented MAS+ and MAS++, where they received the basal diet supplemented by 0.1% and 0.25% (or 1.0 kg/t and 2.5 kg/t of feed) of the mineral adsorbent shungite (MAS) which was provided in the feed in powder form (5 microns) and was added to the feed at the feed mill; the fourth and fifth groups represented DSM+ and DSM++, which received the basal diet provided with 0.1% and 0.25% (or 1.0 kg/t and 2.5 kg/t of feed) of dried seaweed meal of F. vesiculosus algae (DSM). The average egg weight over the entire period of the experiment revealed significant differences between the experimental groups and represented in the control group 65.20 vs. 66.88, 66.87 and 68.10 and 68.13 g in the MAS+ and MAS++, and DSM+ and DSM++ groups, respectively. Once the dried seaweed meal F. vesiculosus (DSM) was used, the crude protein increased significantly (p < 0.05) in egg yolk by 2.64 and 2.67%, carotenoids by 1.13 and 1.20 mg/g DM. The inclusion of both MAS and DSM feed additives revealed a significant decrease in the level of crude fat (lipids) in their liver when compared with the control group. The level of erythrocytes (RBCs) increased (p < 0.05) in the MAS+ and MAS++ and DSM+ and DSM++ groups when compared to the control group. Similarly, a significant increase was noted in hemoglobin when DSM was supplemented when compared to the control one. Moreover, the number of heterophils increased (p < 0.05) in groups of MAS and DSM when compared to the control group. The percentage of phagocytic activity increased significantly by 5.39, 6.90, and 7.18% in MAS++, DSM+, and DSM++, respectively, relative to the control group. On the other hand, the phagocytic number decreased (p < 0.05) by 1.15 and 1.12 conditional units in MAS+ and MAS++ and by 1.03 and 0.83 conditional units in DSM+ and DSM++ when compared to the control group, respectively. Consequently, the inclusion of thermally modified mineral adsorbent shungite and the dried seaweed meal F. vesiculosus with different doses in Brown Nick cross laying hen diets improves the egg weight and egg quality, crude protein, carotenoids and vitamin A in the egg mass, the utilization of lysine and methionine nutrients, hemoglobin content, immunity status, while decreases the incidence of fatty liver occurrence.

Using Azadirachta indica protein hydrolysate as a plant protein in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) diet: Effects on the growth, economic efficiency, antioxidant-immune response and resistance to Streptococcus agalactiae.

A feeding trial for 90 days was conducted on Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) (average weight: 25.50 ± 0.05 g) to evaluate the effect of dietary inclusion of Azadirachta indica seed protein hydrolysate (AIPH). The evaluation included the impact on the growth metrics, economic efficiency, antioxidant potential, hemato-biochemical indices, immune response, and histological architectures. A total of 250 fish were randomly distributed in five treatments (n = 50) and received diets included with five levels of AIPH (%): 0 (control diet, AIPH0), 2 (AIPH2), 4 (AIPH4), 6 (AIPH6) or 8 (AIPH8), where AIPH partially replace fish meal by 0, 8.7%, 17.4%, 26.1%, and 34.8%, respectively. After the feeding trial, a pathogenic bacterium (Streptococcus agalactiae, 1.5 × 108 CFU/mL) was intraperitoneally injected into the fish and the survival rate was recorded. The results elucidated that AIPH-included diets significantly (p < 0.05) enhanced the growth indices (final body weight, total feed intake, total body weight gain, and specific growth rate) and intestinal morpho-metrics (villous width, length, muscular coat thickness, and goblet cells count) in comparison to the control diet, with the AIPH8 diet recording the highest values. Dietary AIPH inclusion significantly improved (p < 0.05) the economic efficacy indicated by reduced feed cost/kg gain and increased performance index. The fish fed on the AIPH diets had noticeably significantly higher (p < 0.05) protein profile variables (total proteins and globulin) and antioxidant capabilities (superoxide dismutase and total antioxidant capacity) than the AIPH0 group. The dietary inclusion of AIPH significantly (p < 0.05) boosted the haematological parameters (haemoglobin, packed cell volume %, and counts of red blood cells and white blood cells) and immune indices (serum bactericidal activity %, antiprotease activity, and immunoglobulin M level) in a concentration-dependent manner. The blood glucose and malondialdehyde levels were significantly (p < 0.05) lowered by dietary AIPH (2%-8%). The albumin level and hepatorenal functioning parameters (aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and creatinine) were not significantly (p > 0.05) altered by AIPH diets. Additionally, AIPH diets did not adversely alter the histology of the hepatic, renal or splenic tissues with moderately activated melano-macrophage centres. The mortality rate among S. agalactiae-infected fish declined as dietary AIPH levels rose, where the highest survival rate (86.67%) was found in the AIPH8 group (p < 0.05). Based on the broken line regression model, our study suggests using dietary AIPH at the optimal level of 6%. Overall, dietary AIPH inclusion enhanced the growth rate, economic efficiency, health status, and resistance of Nile tilapia to the S. agalactiae challenge. These beneficial impacts can help the aquaculture sector to be more sustainable.

Acute mancozeb-fungicide exposure induces neuro-ethology disruption, health disorders, and immune-oxidative dysfunction in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus).

An acute exposure study of mancozeb (MAZ) fungicide was applied on Oreochromis niloticus for 96-h duration. Three hundred fish (20.50 ± 1.60 g) were assigned into six groups (50 fish/ group; 10 fish/replicate) and exposed to different six concentrations (0, 4, 8, 12, 16, and 20 mg L-1) of MAZ for 96-h. The Probit analysis program was used to compute the 96-h lethal concentration 50 (96-h LC50) of MAZ. During the exposure duration, the fish's behavior, clinical symptoms, and mortalities were recorded daily. After the exposure period was ended, the hematological, biochemical, immunological, and oxidant/antioxidant parameters were evaluated. The results of this study recorded the 96-h LC50 of MAZ for O. niloticus to be 11.49 mg L-1. Acute MAZ exposure badly affected the fish's behavior in the form of increased the breath gasping and swimming activity with aggressive mode. The exposed fish showed excessive body hemorrhages and fin rot. The survival rate of the exposed fish to MAZ was 100, 80, 66, 50, 38, and 30% in 0, 4, 8, 12, 16, and 20 mg L-1 MAZ, respectively. The hematological indices (red blood cell count, hemoglobin, packed cell volume%, and white blood cell count) were significantly decreased by increasing the MAZ exposure concentration (8-20 mg L-1). The acetylcholine esterase activity and immune indices (lysozyme, nitric oxide, immunoglobulin M, complement 3) were decreased by MAZ exposure (4-20 mg L-1). Acute MAZ exposure induced hepato-renal dysfunction and elevated stress-related parameter (cortisol) by increasing the MAZ concentration. A significant reduction in the antioxidant parameters (total antioxidant activity, catalase, and superoxide dismutase) with increasing the lipid peroxidation marker (malondialdehyde) was noticed by acute MAZ exposure (4 -20 mg L-1) in O. niloticus. Based on these outcomes, the MAZ exposure induced toxicity to the fish evident in changes in fish behavior, neurological activity, hepato-renal functioning, and immune-antioxidant responses which suggest physiological disruption.

Effect of seaweed (Ecklonia maxima) on apparent nutrient digestibility, growth performance, and physiological and meat quality parameters in Boschveld cockerels.

Despite being touted as a rich source of nutrients and functional bioactive compounds, the amount of brown seaweed (Ecklonia maxima) that can be included in diets of Boschveld indigenous chickens is unknown. This study, therefore, investigated the effect of feeding graded levels of brown seaweed meal (BSM) on apparent nutrient digestibility, growth performance, and physiological and meat quality parameters in Boschveld cockerels. A total of 225, five-wk-old Boschveld cockerels (316.4 ± 23.01 g live weight) were raised on 5 isoenergetic and isonitrogenous experimental diets formulated by incorporating BSM in a standard grower diet at a concentration of 0 (BSM0), 20 (BSM2), 40 (BSM4), 60 (BSM6), and 80 g/kg (BSM8). Feeding graded levels of dietary BSM induced neither quadratic nor linear effects (P > 0.05) on apparent nutrient digestibility, growth performance, hematological parameters, and meat quality characteristics in Boschveld cockerels. However, it resulted in linear increases for overall feed intake (R2 = 0.397; P = 0.021), ceca weight (R2 = 0.417; P = 0.013), duodenum length (R2 = 0.537; P = 0.04), and small intestine length (R2 = 0.305; P = 0.041). Negative quadratic responses were recorded for alanine aminotransferase (R2 = 0.530; P = 0.0009) and ileum length (R2 = 0.457; P = 0.045) as BSM levels increased. In conclusion, dietary inclusion of BSM improved feed intake and some internal organ sizes, altered alanine transaminase levels, but had no significant effect on apparent nutrient digestibility, growth performance, and carcass and meat quality attributes of Boschveld indigenous cockerels.

Lactating sows fed whey protein supplement has eventually increased the blood profile of piglets.

BACKGROUND: The intension of this study was to examine the effect of dietary whey protein supplementation on the reproduction performance, growth performance and blood profile of sow and their offspring. From Day 114 of lactation to 21 days of weaning, a total of 21 sows (n = 7/ treatment) (Landrace × Yorkshire) were blocked according to average parity (2.4) and allocated to 1 of 3 dietary treatments: (i) CON-corn-soybean meal based basal diet, (ii) WPC-CON + 0.047% WPC whey protein concentrate (WPC) and (iii) WPH-CON + 0.02% whey protein hydrolysate (WPH). RESULTS: The reproduction performance of sows was not affected by WPC or WPH supplementation. However, piglets that were born to WPC and WPH group sows showed higher body weight at birth (p = 0.057) and at weaning (p = 0.018). After farrowing, WPC and WPH group sows showed decreased (p = 0.043) RBC count and total iron-binding count (TIBC) (p = 0.046), whereas at the end of the experiment, the blood profile including red blood cells, iron, haemoglobulin and TIBC was significantly increased (p =0.042, 0.049, 0.051 and 0.052 respectively) in WPC group piglets compared to the CON and WPH groups. CONCLUSION: Based on the positive impact on the blood profile of piglets, we conclude that whey protein supplement could serve as a potential energy source to suit lactating sows that could eventually benefit the performance of their offspring.

Effect of DHA supplementation on broilers' growth performance, meat quality and blood profile.

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is vital in the meat composition of broilers which is helpful to maintain a healthy diet in humans. The purpose of this study is to observe the effect of DHA from fish oil on growth performance, organ weight, and meat quality along with the blood profile of broilers. A total of 1600, 1-day old, Ross 308 broilers with an average body weight of 43.15 ± 1.35 g were used in 5 weeks trail. Birds were randomly allotted into one of four dietary treatment groups named: control (CON), basal diet; treatment (TRT)1, CON + 0.05% DHA; TRT2, CON + 0.1% DHA; TRT3, CON + 0.15% DHA. Each treatment group consisted of 20 replications with 20 broilers per pen. The experiment was divided into three phases. Phase 1 (Day 1-7), Phase 2 (Day 7-21), and overall phase (Day 21-35). During Phase 1 and 2, no significant changes were observed on body weight gain (BWG) as the DHA levels increased in the diet. However, during Phase 3, broilers fed diet supplemented with DHA at increasing levels linearly increased (p < 0.05) BWG and feed intake (FI). Also, water holding capacity was reduced and drip loss percentage on Day 7 was increased linearly (p < 0.05) with the increase in DHA supplementation. At the end of trial, pH value of the meat was increased linearly (p < 0.05) with DHA levels. Moreover, blood cholesterol level, high-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein was significantly and linearly (p < 0.05) decreased in DHA supplemented groups. Broiler-fed diet with DHA supplement decreased the red blood cell linearly (p < 0.05) in blood. The results of the study indicate that DHA supplementation increased BWG with FI. Moreover, it has reduced blood lipid constituents with some adverse effect on meat quality.

Effect of purified fish oil supplementation on growth performance, meat quality and blood profile in broilers.

The present research experimented with the view of observing the effect of supplementing purified fish oil (FO) on growth performance, organ weight, meat quality, along with blood profile of broilers. The experiment was conducted upon 1600 male Ross 308, each aged 1 day, broiler strains with an average body weight of 43.15 ± 1.35 g were randomly allotted into four dietary treatment groups where CON, basal diet; TRT1, CON + 0.05% FO; TRT2, CON + 0.10% FO; and TRT3, CON + 0.15% FO respectively. Each treatment group consisted of 20 replication pens, with each pen containing 20 broiler chicks. The 4-week long experiment was divided into two phases. The first phase (Days 7-21), the second phase (Days 22-35) and the overall (Days 7-35). On Day 21, the body weight of broilers in TRT2 and TRT3 was higher than the control. Increasing doses of purified FO supplementation showed a linear (p < 0.05) increase in body weight on Day 21. At the end of Phase 1, FO supplementation improved the body weight gain (BWG) of TRT2 and TRT3 group birds compared to CON. Increasing doses of FO supplementation increased the BWG linearly in all phases. Increasing doses of FO increased chicks' breast muscle weight with the highest value in the TRT3 group. Moreover, liver weight was linearly decreased in FO supplementation groups compared to the CON group. Abdominal fat was linearly decreased in FO supplemented groups. FO supplementation caused the lowest cholesterol and triglyceride in TRT3 than the CON group with a linear reduction. Low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol was reduced by FO supplemental groups. In addition, FO supplementation increased the red blood cell (RBC) in the TRT3 group compared to the CON group. In conclusion, refined FO increased BWG, breast muscle weight and RBC and reduced cholesterol, triglycerides and LDL in broilers' blood.

Effects of Linseed Supplementation on Milk Production, Composition, Odd- and Branched-Chain Fatty Acids, and on Serum Biochemistry in Cilentana Grazing Goats.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of linseed supplementation on milk yield and quality, serum biochemistry and, in particular, to evaluate its possible effects on the production of odd- and branched-chain fatty acids (OBCFA) in the milk of Cilentana grazing goats. Twelve pregnant Cilentana dairy goats were divided into two groups (CTR, control, and LIN, linseed supplementation group). After kidding, the goats had free access to the pasture and both groups received a supplement of 400 g/head of concentrate, but the one administered to the LIN group was characterized by the addition of linseed (in a ratio of 20% as fed) to the ingredients. During the trial, milk samples were taken from April to August in order to evaluate milk production, composition, and fatty acid profile. In addition, blood samples were taken for evaluating the effects of linseed supplementation on goats' health status. The health status of the goats was not influenced by the linseed supplementation, as confirmed by blood analyses. Concerning the effects on milk, the supplementation positively affected (p < 0.001) milk production and fat percentage and the fatty acid profile was markedly influenced by the lipid supplementation. In particular, milk from the LIN group was characterized by significantly lower concentrations of saturated fatty acids (FA; p < 0.001) and higher proportions of monounsaturated FA, polyunsaturated FA, and conjugated linoleic acids (CLAs) than milk from the CTR group (p < 0.001). In contrast, the OBCFA were negatively influenced by the linseed supplementation (p < 0.0001). Further studies are needed to test the effects of different fat sources and other nutrients on the diets.

Effect of dietary supplementation of wildCumin (Bunium persicum) seeds on performance, nutrient digestibility and circulating metabolites in broiler chicks during the finisher phase.

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the impact of inclusion of wild cumin seeds (WCS) on performance, nutrient digestibility and blood profile in broilers during the finisher phase. For this purpose, 360, 14 days old chicks were randomly divided into four groups designated as CONT (control), 0.5WCS, 1.0WCS and 1.5WCS with 5 replicates, which were supplemented with WCS at the rate of 0, 0.5, 1, and 1.5% respectively. On the overall, feed intake was significantly (p < 0.01) higher in the CONT compared to the 1.0WCS. At the end of the finisher phase, and overall basis, body weight and feed conversion ratio were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in 0.5WCS. Crude protein apparent digestibility in the ileum was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in 0.5WCS compared to the CONT, while crude fat digestibility was significantly (p < 0.01) higher in 0.5WCS and 1.5WCS compared to the control. Similarly, serum triglyceride was significantly (p < 0.05) lower in 0.5WC but high density lipoprotein was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the same group. It was concluded that wild Cumin at the rate of 0.5% was superior compared to the other treatments in the diet to improve the performance, nutrient digestibility and blood metabolites in broiler during the finisher phase.

Improving growth performance and blood profile by feeding autolyzed yeast to improve pork carcass and meat quality.

The 63 commercial pigs were divided into three groups consisting of seven replicates of three piglets each. The experimental diets were (1) control diet, (2) diet with autolyzed yeast (AY) 0.5%, and (3) diet with AY 1.0%. Compared to the control group, using AY 0.5% in the diet reduced average daily feed intake (ADFI) and improved feed conversion ratio (FCR) (p < 0.05). The blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (N/L) in blood decreased with the addition of AY 0.5% (p < 0.05). The pH at 6-h postmortem of meat in the 0.5% AY diet group was higher than for the control group (p < 0.05). Backfat thickness (p = 0.09) and P2-backfat thickness (p = 0.07) tended to decrease, while the fat free index (FFI; p = 0.07) tended to increase with 0.5% AY supplementation. The protein percentage (p = 0.07) and the a* value (redness) (p = 0.08) in the meat tended to increase, and the springiness increased with 0.5% AY supplementation (p < 0.05). An appropriate level of AY supplementation can impact positively on the physiological functions in swine with a consequent seems to improve in qualitative traits of the meat quality.

Effects of medicinal plants mixture on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, blood profiles, and fecal microbiota in growing pigs.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Alternative natural materials to antibiotics for improving digestive health and growth performance are needed due to strengthening regulations related to the use of antibiotic growth promoters. The study aimed to evaluate the effects of medicinal plants mixture (60% Bidens pilosa L., 15% Urena lobata L., 15% Pseuderanthemum palatiferum, 5% Ramulus cinnamomi, and 5% Star anise) as alternative growth promotors on animal health, nutrient digestibility, blood parameters, and growth performance of growing pigs. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study was conducted, from April 2020 to June 2020, at a private pig production farm located in Cam Giang district Hai Duong Province, Vietnam. Forty-eight 10-week-old crossbred (♂Duroc×♀ [Landrace×Yorkshire]) pigs, average initial body weight 30.3±1.42 kg, were randomly allocated to four dietary groups, three replicate pens per experimental group, with 4 pigs/pen. For 7 weeks, the pigs were fed a basal diet supplemented with the mixture at levels of 0, 20, 40, and 60 g/kg of feed. RESULTS: Final body weight, average daily gain, average daily feed intake, and feed conversion ratio, as well as apparent total tract digestibility of dry matter, organic matter, crude protein, ether extract, and gross energy were not significantly influenced by the diets (p>0.05). Inclusion of the plant mixture decreased significantly red blood cell count, blood cholesterol, urea nitrogen, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) concentrations (p<0.05) compared with the control diet. No diet effect was observed on fecal Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp., Clostridium spp., and total bacteria counts. CONCLUSION: The incorporation of the plant mixture into the diet of growing pigs reduced serum cholesterol, LDL, and urea concentrations with no adverse effect on performance and nutrient digestibility.

The Effect of Camellia oleifera Cake Polysaccharides on Growth Performance, Carcass Traits, Meat Quality, Blood Profile, and Caecum Microorganisms in Yellow Broilers.

The study was carried out to evaluate the influence of polysaccharides from Camellia oleifera cake (CCP) in Lingnan yellow broilers diet from 1 to 50 days. Growth performance, carcass traits, meat quality, blood profile, and caecum microorganisms were characterized by three different levels of 0, 200 and 800 mg/kg CCP supplementation. Dietary treatment did not affect the productive trait from 1 to 50 days of age, except that average daily feed intake decreased at 42 days of age (p < 0.05). Additionally, the effects of CCP on various organs were different. The weight (p < 0.01) and index (p < 0.05) of bursa of Fabricius gradually decreased with the higher CCP supplementation at 21 days of the broilers diet. The gizzard weights were all higher when the broilers were fed with higher CCP concentration at 21, 42, and 50 days, respectively (p < 0.05). The weight and index of the spleen increased most with low CCP concentration (200 mg/kg) at 42 and 50 days. Moreover, CCP addition had no significant effect on meat quality except cooking loss (P < 0.05) and yellowness of meat color (p < 0.05). In the study of blood metabolism at 50 days of broilers, the concentration of calcium (p < 0.01), total cholesterol (p < 0.05) and uric acid (p < 0.01) decreased with higher CCP supplementation. CCP increased the albumin concentration (p < 0.001) that was highest at 200 mg/kg CCP supplementation. The addition of CCP increased the number of Lactobacillus and Enterococcus faecalis (p < 0.01) in the caecum of broilers, and had the potential to inhibit the growth of Escherichia coli (p = 0.11). Results showed that CCP played a role in improving intestinal flora and the immunity of yellow broilers.

The influence of dietary ß-glucan on immune, transcriptomic, inflammatory and histopathology disorders caused by deltamethrin toxicity in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus).

The protective role of ß-glucan (BG) on liver function, histopathology, immune and antioxidant related gene expressions in Nile tilapia exposed to subacute deltamethrin (DLM) was investigated for 30 days. Fish (28.18 ± 1.34 g) of the 1st and 2nd groups fed the control diet, while the 3rd and 4th groups fed BG at 0.5 g/kg and the 2nd and 4th groups were exposed to DLM (15 µg/L) in rearing water. DLM-treated fish displayed a considerable increase in blood biochemical parameters (creatinine, urea and bilirubin) as well as hepatic enzymes (ALP, AST and ALT) (P < 0.05). Blood total protein, globulin, albumin, WBCs, RBCs, Hb, phagocytic index, phagocytic and lysozyme activities were significantly decreased in fish subjected to DLM (P < 0.05). Fish fed BG showed significantly the lowest cortisol and glucose levels, while fish exposed to DLM without feeding BG showed the highest cortisol and glucose levels (P < 0.05) after 15 and 30 days. Additionally, DLM toxicity caused downregulation in antioxidant (CAT and GPx) and immune (IL-1ß and IL-8) related gene expressions, while and IFN-γ, HSP70 and CASP3 were upregulated. The histopathological examination of Nile tilapia exposed to DLM revealed damage in gills, intestine, spleen and liver which confirmed the toxic effects. Conversely, BG presented protective effects and restored the above-mentioned parameters when fish exposed to DLM and fed BG. Thus, BG supplementation exhibited defensive effects against DLM toxicity in Nile tilapia through improving blood biochemical responses, immune, and antioxidant related gene expressions as well as histopathological effects.

Benefits of aged garlic extract in modulating toxicity biomarkers against p-dimethylaminoazobenzene and phenobarbital induced liver damage in Rattus norvegicus.

Garlic (Allium sativum L.), a popular spice, has been used for decades in treating several medical conditions. Although Allicin, an active ingredient of garlic has been extensively studied on carcinogen-induced hepatotoxicity and oxidative stress in rats (Rattus norvegicus), no systematic study on the beneficial effects of generic aged garlic and specific aged garlic extract-Kyolic has been done. The present study involves rats fed chronically with two liver carcinogens, p-dimethylaminoazobenzene and phenobarbital, to produce hepatotoxicity. The aged garlic extract was characterized by UV-spectra, FTIR, HPLC and GC-MS. Biochemical and pathophysiological tests were performed by keeping suitable controls at four fixation intervals, namely, 30, 60, 90, and 120 days, utilizing several widely accepted toxicity biomarkers. Compared to the controls, remarkable elevation in the activities of lactate dehydrogenase, gamma glutamyl transferase and decline in catalase and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase were observed in the carcinogen fed rats. Daily administration of aged garlic extract, could favorably modulate the elevated levels of various toxicity biomarkers including serum triglyceride, creatinine, urea, bilirubin, blood urea nitrogen except total cholesterol. It also altered the levels of blood glucose, HDL-cholesterol, albumin, AST, ALT, and hemoglobin contents in carcinogen intoxicated rats, indicating its protective potential against hepatotoxicity and oxidative stress in the experimental rats. Down-regulation of Bcl-2 and p53 proteins caused cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in garlic fed group. Kyolic exhibited additional benefits by arresting cell viability of cancer cells. This study would thus validate the use of aged garlic extract in the treatment of diseases causing liver toxicity including hepatocarcinoma.

Effect of dietary supplemental medium chain fatty acids instead of antibiotics on the growth performance, digestibility and blood profiles in growing pigs.

Antibiotics have great functions in farm animal. However, the harm of antibiotics can't be ignored. The effects of medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs) supplementation to basal diet instead of antibiotics (CSP, Chlortetracycline, sulphonamide dimethazine and procaine penicillin, 1:1:1) on growth performance, nutrient digestibility and blood profile in growing pigs were studied. A total of 140 growing pigs (Landrace × Yorkshire × Duroc) with an average body weight of 27.84 ± 0.42 kg were allotted to four treatments of seven replicates/treatment and five pigs/replicate. The four experimental diets included: CON (basal diet, non-antibiotic, negative control); CSP (CON + CSP 0.1%, positive control); M1 (CON + MCFA 0.15%) and M2 (CON + MCFA 0.3%). After 5 weeks, the fresh faecal and blood samples were collected from rectum and jugular vein respectively. The average daily gain (ADG) was significantly improved for pigs fed 0.3% MCFAs in relation to basal diet. Meanwhile, CSP supplementation had comparable effect on ADG. The lymphocyte percentage and IgG concentration were higher in blood of pigs-fed MCFAs in relation to that of CON and CSP treatment while white blood cell and red blood cell were not affected. In relation to basal diet and CSP treatment, the digestibility of dry matter, nitrogen and gross energy (E) were unaffected with MCFAs supplementation. In conclusion, MCFAs improved growth performance on body weight gain and immune profile. Addition 0.3% MCFAs into the diet indicated that its partial positive effect as an alternative to antibiotic.

Influence of Bacillus subtilis GCB-13-001 on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, blood characteristics, faecal microbiota and faecal score in weanling pigs.

The present study investigated the influence of Bacillus subtilis GCB-13-001 on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, blood characteristics, faecal microbiota and faecal score in weanling pigs. A total of 120 weaning pigs [(Landrace × Yorkshire) × Duroc; 7.73 ± 0.75 kg (28 days of age)] were randomly allotted into three treatments according to their initial body weight (BW) and gender in a 6-week experiment. There were 8 replication pens in each treatment, with five pigs/pen. Dietary treatment groups were as follows: (a) basal diet (CON), (b) CON + 0.1% Bacillus subtilis GCB-13-001 1 × 108  CFU/kg (T1) and (c) CON + 0.1% Bacillus subtilis GCB-13-001 1 × 109  CFU/kg (T2). Days 1 to 7, the BW and ADG with T2 treatment were higher (p < .05) than CON treatment, as well as F:G showed trends in linear reduction (p < .1). Days 8 to 21, the BW and ADG were improved (p < .05) in pigs offered T1 and T2 diets compared with CON diet. Days 22 to 42, BW and ADG were higher (p < .05) in pigs fed T2 diet than CON and T1 diets, and the pigs fed T1 diet had higher BW than CON treatment. Overall, the ADG with the T2 treatment was higher (p < .05) than that with the T1 and CON treatments, and pigs offered T1 treatment had higher (p < .05) ADG than CON treatment. Moreover, F:G ratio were significantly decreased (p < .05) by T2 treatment compared with CON treatment. The faecal Lactobacillus counts were improved, and E. coli counts were reduced (p < .05) in pigs fed T2 diet compared with CON at the end of the experiment. In conclusion, supplementation of 0.1% Bacillus subtilis GCB-13-001 1 × 109  CFU/kg has shown a beneficial effect in improving BW, increase ADG, decrease F:G ratio.

Impacts of dietary microalgae (Schizochytrium JB5) on growth performance, blood profiles, apparent total tract digestibility, and ileal nutrient digestibility in weaning pigs.

BACKGROUND: Microalgae can serve as an alternative to animal feed additives or supplements in the diet of weaning pigs, to increase their potential and performance. Two experiments were conducted with three dietary treatments: CON (basal diet), MA1 (basal diet + 0.5% microalgae), and MA2 (basal diet + 1.0% microalgae). In Experiment 1, 150 crossbred weaning pigs were used in a 5-week experiment. In Experiment 2, 15 cannulated barrows were used. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of dietary supplementation of Schizochytrium microalgae on growth performance, blood profiles, apparent total tract digestibility, and ileal nutrient digestibility in weaning pigs. RESULTS: In Experiment 1, pigs fed with MA2 had higher growth (P < 0.05) than pigs fed with MA1 from day 8 to day 21 but the experimental result showed no significant effects (P > 0.05) on growth performance, white blood cell, total cholesterol, and triglyceride among the treatments. However, lymphocytes (%) of pigs fed with MA1 and MA2 diets were significantly higher (P < 0.05) than those of pigs fed with a CON diet at day 35. In Experiment 2, the apparent total tract digestibility and ileal nutrient digestibility of dry matter and nitrogen were higher (P < 0.05) in pigs fed with MA1 and MA2 than in those fed with a CON diet. CONCLUSION: Dietary microalgae supplementation had more dramatic and beneficial effects on nutrient digestibility than a CON diet. It also increased lymphocyte concentration but had no significant effect on growth performance in weaning pigs. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry.

Effect of hydroxyselenomethionine on lactation performance, blood profiles, and transfer efficiency in early-lactating dairy cows.

The current study investigated the effects of hydroxyselenomethionine (HMBSe), a novel organic selenium (Se) additive, on lactation performance, blood profiles, antioxidative status, and transfer efficiency of Se in early-lactation dairy cows. Sixty multiparous early-lactating dairy cows with similar days in milk (57 d; standard deviation = 9.9) and milk yield (36.5 kg/d; standard deviation = 1.42) were fed a basal diet containing 0.04 mg of Se/kg (dry matter basis). These cows were assigned to 1 of 4 groups following a randomized complete block design as follows: control (basal diet) or HMBSe addition (0.1, 0.3, or 0.5 mg of Se/kg of dry matter). The experiment lasted for 13 wk, with the first week as adaptation. The results showed that milk yields (raw, protein, and lactose) and feed efficiency were improved in a quadratic manner following increased dietary HMBSe addition, whereas energy-corrected milk, 4% fat-corrected milk, and total solid yields tended to be enhanced quadratically. In terms of whole-blood variables, red blood cell and white blood cell levels were increased quadratically, whereas hemoglobin concentration increased linearly with increased HMBSe addition. Plasma nonesterified fatty acid concentrations tended to increase linearly along with HMBSe addition. Plasma superoxide dismutase activity increased quadratically with increased HMBSe addition. The total antioxidant capacity in plasma tended to improve quadratically when cows were fed more HMBSe. Moreover, plasma malondialdehyde concentrations of dairy cows tended to decrease in a quadratic manner when dietary HMBSe increased. The Se concentrations in milk, plasma, and milk/plasma ratio increased linearly following increased HMBSe addition. In conclusion, HMBSe improved lactation performance, health status, and milk Se concentrations in early-lactating dairy cows.

Effect of low- or high-CP diet with cold-pressed oil supplementation on growth, immunity and antioxidant indices of growing quail.

This study was to investigate the effect of dietary protein levels and supplementation with two cold-pressed oils on the performance, immunity and antioxidant indices of growing Japanese quails. A 3 × 4 factorial experiment, using 3 dietary crude protein (CP) levels (22%, 24% and 26%) and 4 supplemental herbal oils levels: control without additives, 250 mg marjoram (Mar), 250 mg thyme (Thy) and 125 mg Mar + 125 mg Thy per kg diet. A total of 720 unsexed, 7-day-old quail chicks were randomly distributed into twelve treatment groups (4 replicates per group of 15 chicks in each). The live body weight (LBW) on 42 days and body weight gain (BWG) from 7 to 42 days were significantly improved (p < 0.01 and 0.05) in chicks fed 24% or 26% CP compared with those of the 22% CP group. The groups fed diets supplemented with Mar or in combination with Thy oil exhibited significantly better LBW, BWG and feed conversion ratio (FCR) than the control at all periods except BWG from 21 to 42 days and FCR from 7 to 21 days were not significant. Feed intake was gradually decreased with increasing dietary CP level or adding herbal oils during the periods 21-42 and 7-42 days of age. Plasma triglycerides, cholesterol, total lipids and malondialdehyde were decreased by cold-pressed oils supplementation, but the activity of reduced glutathione and superoxide dismutase was increased (p < 0.01) compared with the control. In conclusion, quails fed a diet containing 24% or 26% CP or diets supplemented with Mar or Thy oils or both exhibited improvement in the performance, lipid profile, immunity and antioxidant capacity without any detrimental impacts on the other studied parameters.